Pres VanOrden's Memorial Stone Fund

We, the children of Ralph L. Van Orden, come to you, a loving and warm community, to ask for support and funding. We need to lay a memorial stone for our father, Ralph L. Van Orden, but have not the means for one that speaks to how greatly beloved he was and remains  to those he served. He was a rock of strength to so many. We plan to enlist the talents of a monument artist to distill this vision: an upright stone, as he was, a rough edge mirroring mountainous peaks, and rustic dignity like the frontier he always sought.

It is an undertaking we cannot do alone. Michael, Amara, Dan, Heather, Jason, and those very closest to us who have joined this family, ask for help with hope and gratitude. We know those who remember Bro V.O. would want to help given the choice.

2018 commenced with this untimely loss for which we were totally unprepared.  Ralph Lloyd Van Orden died on January 5, 2018 without great disturbance or bodily harm. It was a shock to us, his family, and all who knew him. On January 11th, so many of you gathered and came to remember the loving, compassionate, jovial, LDS Scholar that he was. We cannot express how much you all buoyed us up and helped us better realize the many lives he influenced. On the day of the funeral old bonds and rich memories were renewed. One of you imparted to me, Michael, a treasured and familiar story of Brother Van Orden helping them through deep struggles. That story comforted me in many ways.

Our father met an early end but bequeathed a lasting legacy that we wish to memorialize. We feel a pressing desire to express how greatly we miss him. We petition for the help of anyone who has it to offer. Let’s join together, as a community well served by him,  to help his family lay a fitting headstone to honor this great & loving leader, father, and friend. We won't likely know another person anywhere like him. Let's remember him the best we can.

We share our Love and Deepest Gratitude,
Love each other and stay well,


The family of Ralph & Jean Van Orden